Bella Adams
Pearl barley gets its name from the word “pearl” – a pearl. Indeed, the processed barley grains look like river pearls, although if we take a closer look at the beneficial properties of pearl barley, we can say that this grain is just as precious. The health benefits of pearl barley are enormous; it is an extremely nutritious product rich in essential substances. Let’s talk about it!
The composition of pearl barley
Not every product has such a rich set of vitamins and elements.
The composition of pearl barley includes:
- vitamin A – improves vision, supports the immune system, normalizes the condition of the skin, and hair, and strengthens tooth enamel;
- Vitamin E – slows down the aging process, and is indispensable for hormonal metabolism in women;
- Vitamin PP – reduces the level of “harmful” cholesterol, and controls the functioning of the nervous system;
- Vitamin D – is necessary for the musculoskeletal system, teeth;
fiber improves intestinal function, absorbs toxins, removes toxins, and promotes weight loss; - phosphorus relieves fatigue, regulates muscle activity, and restores strength after exercise.
- Barley contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, polyunsaturated fats, potassium, and sodium.
The caloric content of 100 g of the product is 350 Kcal.
Benefits of barley for the body
To eliminate toxins from the body, it is necessary to eat pearl barley almost every day, which will help the body get rid of all harmful and unnecessary substances. Eating pearl barley porridge ensures normalization of the gastrointestinal tract.
Pearl barley has a high energy value, but this does not prevent this cereal from contributing to maintaining a good figure. Pearl barley porridge is identified as a dietary dish. Even special pearl barley diets have been developed.
Pearl barley is also useful for children! It can provide the growing organism with all the substances and components necessary for growth and development. Therefore, it is extremely important to include it in the children’s menu.
Eating pearl barley is the key to maintaining strong immunity and eradicating the possibility of colds. The lysine contained in the cereal has an antiviral effect on herpes and colds.
Barley porridge is an indispensable dish for people with such problems as diabetes and allergies. The cereal contains a large number of amino acids, which can reduce the susceptibility of an allergic person’s body to various external stimuli.
Pearl barley, like no other grain, is rich in phosphorus. This substance helps to normalize the functioning of the endocrine system and activates brain activity.
Barley porridge is a must-have dish for athletes. Eating this cereal helps to increase the intensity and speed of muscle contractions.
In the case of inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract, in the postoperative period, pearl barley is very useful to eat. A large amount of fiber contributes to a more active digestive process.
Decoctions of pearl barley are used as a remedy for diseases of the gallbladder and kidneys.
Harm and contraindications for the use of pearl barley
Pearl barley porridge cannot do much harm.
Pearl barley is contraindicated in certain diseases: frequent constipation, flatulence, and high stomach acidity.
Pay attention! Barley is not recommended for pregnant women: it contains gluten protein, and men should not eat barley porridge often, as it can cause bloating and reduce libido.
Barley in dietetics
Properly prepared pearl barley is successfully used in dietetics.
Important! Before starting a barley diet, consult a dietitian. For most people, pearl barley is suitable, but there are some diseases for which it is not recommended to eat it.
A seven-day barley diet will help you lose five to seven extra pounds. There is a strict five-day diet, during which you can eat pearl barley porridge without oil and salt, and drink up to 1.5-2 liters of mineral water per day.
Benefits of the pearl barley diet. The body is cleansed of toxins, and in the first days, excess fluid and toxins are quickly removed from the tissues. The diet does not harm the body. Barley quickly gives a feeling of satiety, and a person who is losing weight does not suffer from a constant feeling of hunger.
You need to come off the diet gradually. It is advisable to leave healthy and satisfying barley porridge on the breakfast menu. You can repeat the diet no earlier than two weeks later.
Pearl barley in cooking
Pearl barley has been used in cooking for a long time. The most popular dish made from it is porridge, which is varied with different gravies, sauces, etc. By adding mushrooms or vegetables to it, you get a full-fledged main course.
Pearl barley is put in soups and other first courses to add satiety and a pleasant taste. Among such culinary masterpieces, it is worth noting a dish beloved by many people – pickle.
In addition, groats are used in recipes for goulash, cutlets, and casseroles. Boiled pearl barley can be put in salads, and with the addition of various spices, it can be used as an original filling for baking. Barley porridge goes perfectly with any kind of meat and fish.
Another very popular dish of the New Year and Christmas cycle in Ukraine, using pearl barley, is kutia, to which, after cooking, you add broth, compote, raisins, dried fruits, honey, poppy seeds, and nuts to taste.
Since porridge is the most popular dish, you need to figure out how to cook pearl barley properly. For a traditional recipe, take 1 cup of groats and 5 cups of water. Rinse the barley thoroughly. You can soak it for several hours, but it is not necessary.
First, cover the groats with three cups of liquid, bring them to a boil, and cook for six minutes. After the time is up, drain the groats in a colander. Pour the remaining liquid (2 cups) into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and then pour in the prepared groats, add a little butter or 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and cook over low heat for 30 minutes.
Rules for choosing and storing pearl barley
Signs of quality pearl barley: good pearl barley has normal moisture content; grains are smooth, milky white in color, without visible damage and foreign odor; there are no larvae or cereal gnats.
When buying pearl barley in packs, pay attention to the expiration date. Expired products should not be consumed.
Store groats in tin or glass jars. Some housewives keep groats “the old-fashioned way” – in bags. The humidity in the room should be within normal limits. Do not buy cereal for future use. Check regularly for beetles or midges. Throw away spoiled barley immediately.
Barley is a valuable dietary product that has a pronounced beneficial effect on the body. Enjoy your meal and stay healthy!
